Iowa district saves $63,000 by switching to plastic trays

Switching from polystyrene foam trays to reusable plastic trays.

Feb. 20—The Sioux City school district can save $63,000 this year because of the recent elimination of polystyrene foam meal trays in favor of reusable plastic trays. The switch came after the school system had been using Styrofoam trays for more than 20 years. Most recently, the trays cost $82,000 annually.

The flimsy trays could only be used once before being stuffed in the trash, said district Food Service Manager Rich Luze. In October, he signed a deal to buy 15,744 plastic trays at about 24 cents each.

City officials are weighing changes to school menus less than one year after earlier changes drew parent criticism. Officials say those menu changes were not final, and an advisory board is suggesting healthier, fresher dishes and a more expansive in-class breakfast program.